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Saturday, April 22, 2017

I barely painted anything for years. Between starting out as a brand new RN to having our two little ones, there never seemed to be a good time. As they're getting out of the baby/toddler stage, I'm starting to find more moments when I don't have to be super vigilant for little mouths eating paint and smearing it on the dog. After vending my crafts at couple events and barely breaking even (if that) I was encouraged by several to focus more on my art. This change in directions was somewhat difficult for me for a variety of reasons, but I trusted them and shifted gears. As I wrote about before, I decided on a whim to enter an art contest to design a tee shirt for the Oregon Poultry Swap, and it won!

Well, then I decided I should apply to vend at their events, since it was also a homesteading fair and most of my work followed the rustic theme. As I was brainstorming over Christmas, I had several people laugh at my idea of making chicken art, but my husband continued to encourage me.

They were a hit! And the event was so much fun!

So here's basically how my process goes:

I try to reuse a many material as I can from Bring (material recycling), or end-pieces from other projects. So usually I need to cut them down to the requested size. If they're not already weathered, I have a process to achieve the same effect. After sanding, I saturate the surface in my steel and vinegar solution and allow it to dry.

Then I measure out where I want everything laid out and slowly, slowly, the image takes shape.

To finish up, I add a layer of protective finish over the top and attach a hanging device.

It's been so much fun to receive custom orders for these signs and to memorialize everyone's special animals.

About Me

Hi! I am a born-and-raised NW Washintonian, schooled in Oregon, became a nurse and then a mother in Alaska, and have just relocated back to Oregon where we hope to settle and raise our children (and some critters and gardens as well!) I've seen God work through me through his amazing wild world and feel honored to exist in the Creator's beautiful, natural creation. I want to allow my kids to experience this as well and learn from all natures complexities and simplicity. Adventures from the wilds of Alaska to great storybooks await! All photos are mine and copyrighted unless otherwise specified. Hope you enjoy!